Bubbles, Fads and Stock Price Volatility Tests: A Partial Evaluation
- Abstract
- Full Text PDF
- Author(s): KENNETH D. WEST
- Published: Apr 30, 2012
- Pages: 639-656
- DOI: 10.1111/j.1540-6261.1988.tb04596.x
ABSTRACT
This is a summary and interpretation of some of the literature on stock price volatility that was stimulated by Leroy and Porter [28] and Shiller [40]. It appears that neither small‐sample bias, rational bubbles nor some standard models for expected returns adequately explain stock price volatility. This suggests a role for some nonstandard models for expected returns. One possibility is a “fads” model in which noise trading by naive investors is important. At present, however, there is little direct evidence that such fads play a significant role in stock price determination.